Milwaukee is amazing in the summer. There's Brewer games, cookouts, festivals, music, and the lakefront. The whole city collectively shakes the flakes of snow off its shoulders and gingerly steps, blinking, into the sunlight to finally get that needed dose of vitamin D.
There are infinite websites to find what's happening in the summer--I know this because I'm one of those people who visits all of them. Unfortunately, there's no one website that shows all the events, so I end up visiting multiple websites to plan my summer. This process usually begins in late spring when I bring out my ol' fashioned wall calendar and start planning our summer schedule.
Today I'm going to share with you the best links to help you shape your summer plans. Maybe you're like me and need a reason to leave your house to make you feel like you're actually participating in society. Well, my friend, here you go.
Lakefront
Ahhh, the lake--it's Milwaukee's playground. Everyone migrates east on a hot day for the beach, but there's so much more to check out. You can rent bikes or paddleboats or kites, learn how to sail, charter a fishing expedition, or join a volleyball league. See here for more details.
MKE Libraries
Parents, you need to know that your local library has story times, jugglers, magicians, and cupcake wars for your kids. And it's free! There. You've been told.
Their calendar has a lot of events to navigate, but definitely worth checking out.
Bayshore Mall
The central square has live music on Thursday night for those of us not brave enough for the crowds at Jazz in the Park. Bonus points for the fountains the kids can run through while you enjoy a picnic or some eats from one of the many restaurants on site. Check Bayshore's website for their event calendar.
Farmers' Markets
Even if your fridge and pantry are well stocked, going to the market is great use of a slow Saturday morning. Buy a pastry and coffee and check out the beautiful produce and wares from local people. Keep an eye out for lavender honey--it's my new favorite, drizzled over brie on a baguette. Mmm. See here for Milwaukee County markets, here for the Tosa Market, and here for the Fondy Market.
Outdoor Movies
Summer just doesn't get better than this, and it just so darn wholesome--and they're free, which is a nice bonus. Pack a sweater, chair, blanket and bug spray. See here for all the dates.
Festivals
What is MKE summer without festivals? One of our family favorites is Bastille Days, which is going on this weekend. We love the juggling unicycle guy and the chalk art. This link and this link have the most extensive festival listings.
Colectivo
Sure, they serve up great coffee, but did you know about their summer music events? Good music, gorgeous outdoor spaces, and great coffee. Ain't nothing better. Here's the link to the concerts.
Corners of Brookfield
I just heard today that this new shopping space is showing outdoor family movies on Tuesday nights. Snacks and drinks will be available on-site. See here for the lineup.
Rec Department
The recreation department has been an unsung hero for too long. Does your child want to try soccer, but you're afraid of the cost and giving away all your precious Saturdays? This is for you. Have you always wanted to try underwater belly dancing (which is not offered but should be), but money is tight? Rec Department. Want to learn how to sew or learn fifth language--just to be a showoff? Rec Department. Boom. Find your perfect class here.
Things that Include Running
I'm not a runner, but like the idea of running. I also really like people who run--they seem nice. What I mean is (other than myself) I've never met an angry runner. If you are a runner, or if you daydream about being the kind of person who runs, check out all the races you could run and totally win if you, like, ran in them. Check out the local running things here.
Things that Include Eating
I would be remiss if I didn't leave you with a couple links to some of my favorite summer places to eat. What is summer without a juicy burger and a side of vegan food?
On The Bus- It's starting to feel like vegans are taking over the city, but they coming bearing gifts like açaí bowls. I recommend the either the Cacao Bowl or the Cacao Berry Bowl, skip the granola and add extra strawberries, just to be high maintenance.
Cafe Centraal- This place is one of the best outdoor patios in the city. Try the salmon salad, although that spicy bacon avocado burger makes me want to quit salad for a minute.
Cafe Corozon- I just ate here for the first time this week. Try the salmon tostada with a margarita.
Juice Kitchen- You've eaten your weight in brats and just need to feed your body some goodness. Here's your spot.
Rocket Baby- I am loving their new outdoor patio space! They serve, possibly, the best chocolate croissants in the city.
Mr. Dyes Pies- Here's the MKE classic for all your outdoor picnics and cookouts.
Cafe Benelux- Rooftop patio, amiright?! I always get the Benelux salad with chicken, light on the bleu cheese. Classic.
The Outsider- I hear the line for this cocktail spot starts early, so get there on a nice day and get there fast!
View MKE - I have to be honest--a single tear fell when I heard Wolfpeach (in this same location) had closed. I haven't checked their food yet, but I know it has the most beautiful view of our cityscape.
Even though summer is half over, there's so much left to do.
Do you have other tips for your summer planning? If so, please leave a link in the comments section.
Cheers,
Laura
Cover art found here.
